Adam Kay’s book glimpses into the world of medicine and the issues that doctors encounter on a daily basis. It’s fantastically written, humorous, and an informative read.
Now, you don’t have to be a medical student, or senior consultant in obstetrics to understand the stories Adam recalls. He explains the medical jargon in a way that doesn’t compromise on accuracy, and still includes the humour you would expect from someone who has been in the field for many years.
One of the main take-homes from the book is the gruelling conditions that doctors face, particularly the long and often unsociable hours they are required to work. Adam’s story of his journey from a junior doctor (SHO in old money) to becoming a senior consultant provides a candid look at the toll that this lifestyle can take on one’s mental and physical health.
It’s depressing to read about Adam’s struggles to maintain a work-life balance and the impact this lifestyle had on his personal life. Despite the difficulties, the book shows his love for his job and his patients. As he puts it, “No doctor is in it for the money”.
The book is also a stark reminder of the need for better working conditions and support for healthcare professionals. Oh, and maybe better funding. Descriptions of his 97-hour workweek, with frequent overnight shifts, no time off, and colleagues working shifts on their wedding day illustrate the extreme demands placed on doctors in the National Health Service.
After a traumatic event in the labour ward, Adam’s medical career came to an end. Although you are aware he left medicine at the beginning of the book, the whole reason he left is not revealed until the very end. This tragic tale serves as a reminder of the extreme pressure and emotional toll that healthcare workers endure every day.
A valuable lesson can be learnt from Adam’s account and that is healthcare professionals need to be supported and their mental health should be prioritised.
This book is a must-read for anyone with a medical interest, especially for those considering studying medicine. It offers an entertaining and informative account of being a doctor. You will laugh and cry while reading, but more importantly, you will get a greater appreciation for the hardworking, dedicated staff that keep our NHS running.
And for the TV series based on the book, that’s on the list of things to watch.
